When athletes take a stand on sociopolitical issues, they have a public profile by which to showcase their views. But they face criticism that it is not their 'place' to comment on sensitive matters.

Cathy Freeman was criticised for flying the Aboriginal flag at the 1994 Commonwealth Games but the same act at the Sydney 2000 Olympics was hailed as a moment of reconciliation.
Reuters/Jerry LampenAugust 17, 2016

There are many people who would like us to believe that sport and politics should never mix. The reason for this is sport is seen as the pure and noble practice where champions arrive after hard work and…